Air Conditioners For Condos
A majority of modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning installed. Many apartments and condos with air conditioning units are fitted with floor-to ceiling windows, that offer stunning views but also too much sunshine and heat.
If your house has ductwork, then a central AC is a good option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if the building isn’t equipped with any ductwork, then a central AC system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a simple and cost-effective option to cool a condominium without installing ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them an ideal choice for those with a tight budget or with older homes that don’t have ductwork. There are some disadvantages, which should be considered prior to buying.
Window ACs are limited to cooling one room, making them not the best choice for larger homes. They also consume a lot of energy, which is why it’s crucial to choose models that have high energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. In addition, they pose an security risk since the windows can be easily removed and allow an easy access to your home.
You may have to put in accordions or even wood to block the extra space around the window. Most window units come with a window installation kit which you can use to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and affixing the sleeve to the exterior of the frame. For larger models that have a higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to slide onto rails, and the sleeve attached to the frame with brackets.
To determine the size unit you will need by multiplying the square footage by the amount of BTUs required to cool the room comfortably. Be aware of whether the room is in an apartment building that is high-rise or receives plenty of sunlight. A larger HVAC unit will be more expensive, but will help you save on energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts suggest investing in central AC for a long-term solution. The initial cost might be higher, but it will pay off over time with lower monthly utility bills and a longer lifespan than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are cooling systems that work like space heaters. The units are designed to connect to an outlet and a tube, or mini-duct, will run out an opening to vent heat and CO2 (not to confuse with the poisonous gas CO2). The units can be moved from room to room, and are typically sized based on their cooling capacity, which is measured by BTU ratings. For the best results, the unit should be designed to fit in the space it is intended for as larger units will not provide enough cooling and could get worn out faster than needed.
These units are most often employed in apartment buildings and homes that have been converted without ducting systems. The primary method of cooling is a central AC unit. By installing an AC unit that is portable in one or more rooms, you will be able to reduce the burden on the central system and save money and energy.
The most effective portable units include a dehumidifier feature to decrease the amount of moisture. This is a common reason for hot spots and it can make the space feel uncomfortable. The units should also include washable filters to maintain the performance of the unit and a remote control for easy operation. Find ENERGY STAR-certified models that comply with efficiency standards to reduce energy and cost when as compared to non-certified models.
If you choose to go with a portable option it’s crucial to choose the dual-hose model over a single-hose model. Dual-hose models permit air from outside to be drawn in through the condenser coils that are hot and then expelled through the other hose. This increases the efficiency and decreases the sound level of the unit. This feature could cost more however the savings and comfort can make it worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits can be ductless replacements for central air conditioners. They are comprised of an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units, which are connected by thin piping that is shaped like electrical wires through small openings in your walls. Ductless systems are a great choice for condos because they can be used in areas where traditional HVAC ducts aren’t feasible. They are the ideal cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments, as homeowners don’t want to cut into floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system, the indoor unit cools air as it travels through a tube filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than other models and allows you to cool your home without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems also provide heating, so you can have all year round peace and comfort.
A ductless system is ideal for many types of spaces, including sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also increase comfort in older houses condominiums, apartments, and homes which aren’t equipped with ductwork. This type of system could also be used in multifamily homes since it is easily adaptable to various occupancy patterns.
Additionally the ductless system can be much more energy efficient than traditional systems, since it doesn’t have to force air over long distances. In turn, it can cut down on your power consumption significantly. They are also smaller than forced-air systems which can help them reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent choice to replace obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings, because they provide superior cooling performance and more customized temperature control. They can improve the air quality of your apartment, in addition with a highly efficient filtering system that removes harmful particles from the air. This will assist you in avoiding asthma and allergy symptoms while ensuring your condo’s comfort throughout the year. Contact us today if ready to learn more. Our knowledgeable technicians are available to help. We can assist you in choosing the best air conditioner for your particular situation by assessing your needs.